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Idaho Motorcycle Insurance Requirements

Idaho is a state located in the northwest portion of the United States. It is known by many as the “Potato State” because it is the most highly produced crop in this state. It is bordered by various other states including: Nevada, Montana, Utah, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming. It is also widely regarded as the “Gem State” because almost every discovered type of gems can be found within the state. The economy of Idaho is heavily geared towards agriculture – most specifically production of potatoes. They are known for producing approximately 33% of all potatoes grown in the U.S. It is also known for food processing, chemical products, paper production, mining, and tourism.

Do you plan on driving a motorcycle through the state of Idaho? If so, you need to comply with the current insurance laws. All drivers will be required to demonstrate some sort of financial responsibility before they take their motorcycle for a drive on public roads. “Financial responsibility” is just fancy jargon referring to the fact that you need to have money to pay for any damages that you may cause while riding a motor vehicle. The most popular way to prove that you are financially responsible is by purchasing insurance.

Idaho Motorcycle Insurance Requirements

In order for you to cruise through the Potato State, you need to make sure that your insurance is up to par with what the law suggests. This means making sure you either purchase liability coverage or use another method to prove that you have enough funds to cover damages that you could potentially cause.

How to Establish Financial Responsibility in Idaho

Compared to most states, Idaho gives you plenty of variety when it comes to proving financial responsibility. The most common method to prove your responsibility is that of taking out a liability insurance policy. You do also have the options of: self-insurance, surety bonds, and cash deposits.

Liability Insurance – The most common way to prove that you are financially responsible is to purchase liability coverage that meets Idaho’s minimum requirements. You can get one from any licensed insurer.

Self-Insurance – This option is only for individuals that have 25+ vehicles registered to their name. This type of coverage is for owners of fleets and/or a significant amount of vehicles.

Surety Bond – If you’d like you can take the time to get a surety bond from a licensed in-state broker. This bond will protect you in the event of

Cash Deposit – Another option you have is to make a cash deposit with the State Treasurer. This deposit will be held and utilized in the event that you are responsible for an accident.

Motorcycles / Two-Wheeled Vehicles Defined

If you own a two-wheeled vehicle in the state of Idaho, it is important to recognize the classification under which it falls. If you are unsure about what type of 2-wheeled vehicle you own, you can contact the Idaho Division of Motor Vehicles at the following number: (208)-334-8649. They have experts trained to help you determine the type of vehicle that you plan on driving and will be able to tell you whether you need to purchase insurance.

Motorcycles: Motor vehicles with a seat or saddle for riding and a design to travel on not more than 3 wheels in contact with the ground. Your motorcycle must be in compliance with all federal safety standards.

Motor-Driven Cycles: These include cycles that produce 5-brake horsepower or less. These require a title and motorcycle endorsement to legally operate.

Mopeds: These are limited-speed motor-driven cycles with both a motor and pedal propulsion that cannot exceed 30 mph. If an internal combustion engine is used, it must not exceed 50 cc. These have power drive systems that function directly or automatically without clutching or shifting. These may be electrical powered as long as they do not exceed 2-brake horsepower.

Note: Mopeds are the only two-wheeled vehicle that do NOT require titling or a motorcycle endorsement to drive. Motorcycles and motor-driven cycles must be titled and you must have an endorsement to operate them.

Idaho Motorcycle Insurance Minimum Requirements

The minimum amount of insurance that is required to legally drive your motorcycle in Idaho is below. Once you have obtained your motorcycle endorsement and have it officially titled, you can search for an insurance company. Most insurers will help you find a policy that meets the minimal state requirements.

Liability Insurance:

$25,000 bodily injury per person

$50,000 bodily injury per accident

$15,000 property damage per accident

It is important to keep in mind that the above amounts of coverage may not be enough protection in a serious accident. These are called the “minimums” for a reason – they do not provide extensive coverage. You may want to consider increasing your limits and getting a little bit more protection for added security. Talk to your insurance company and find out what they recommend for a person in your situation.

Idaho Laws: Safety & Licensing Requirements

Each state has specific requirements that must be met regarding the use of helmets, eyewear, and licensing. Be sure to follow the guidelines as are presented by Idaho state law.

Helmet – If you are under the age of 18, you are required to wear a helmet whether you are driving a motorcycle or riding as passenger.

Eye Protection – You are not required by law to wear any sort of eye-protection, but it is recommended for personal safety.

Licensing – In order to drive a motorcycle, you must obtain the proper motorcycle “M” endorsement on your driver’s license. For individuals 21 years of age or older, a training course can be completed and the skills test is not required. For individuals under the age of 21, you must complete a training and skills test to get this endorsement.

Note: It is recommended that you use your headlights during the day while riding in Idaho.

Proof of Financial Responsibility in Idaho

It is important to always make sure that you have proof of financial responsibility while driving your motorcycle. If you buy an insurance policy, this proof will come in the form of an ID card or other certificate. Individuals that do not have any proof of responsibility that are caught could face serious penalties. Make sure that you always have one of the following with you at all times while operating your motorcycle.

Insurance ID Card – Your insurance provider will issue an identification card that will show your policy number, type of coverage, and date of expiration.

Self-Insurance Certificate – If you went the route of self-insurance, you should keep your certificate with you while riding.

Surety Bond Certificate – When you get a surety bond, you will receive official documentation under your name. Keep the certificate and/or documentation with you on your motorcycle.

Cash Deposit Certificate – Individuals that made cash deposits should have a certificate from their transaction. Keep this certificate on hand so that if you get pulled over, you can show proof.

Penalty for Lack of Insurance

If you are unable to show a police officer that you have adequate insurance, you may face some serious penalties. Depending on how many prior offenses you’ve had, the penalties can vary. An easy way to avoid these penalties is to always make sure you have proof of insurance with you.

1st Offense:

Fine: You will be smacked with a $75 fine.

Provide Proof (1 Year): You must provide proof of insurance for a complete year with no further problems.

2nd Offense:

The second offense is considered anything that happens within 5 years of your first offense.

Fine: You could be fined up to $1,000.

Provide Proof (3 Years): You must provide proof of insurance to legal officials for at least 3 years with no further problems.

Jail: You may end up serving time in jail for up to 6 months just for lack of insurance.

Idaho Motorcycle Insurance Companies

It is pretty easy to get an insurance policy for your motorcycle in Idaho. However, getting a policy that meets your personal needs and budget is a little bit more difficult. To help you out, we implemented a form on this website below (and at the top of the page) that allows you to enter your Zip Code and a list of the top providers in your specific location will be generated.

From the list of generated insurers, you can collect quotes and determine which company is offering the best coverage for your money. It is better to take your time and compare quotes than overpay for coverage with a subpar insurance company. Once you have settled on a policy from a provider that gives you a good deal, you’re good to go.